Aerospace Engineering

Propulsion analysis may involve thrust requirements, propellant or fuel systems, engines, feed systems, operating conditions, controls, test results, and vehicle-level performance. NASA Johnson's spacecraft propulsion work encompasses complete propulsion subsystems, including tanks, feed systems, valves, engines, testing, and integrated fluid systems. An expert can compare such engineering evidence with the vehicle's requirements and recorded behavior when propulsion performance is disputed.

Launch and space systems can generate engineering evidence through design calculations, qualification testing, telemetry, configuration records, propulsion data, guidance information, and post-test or post-flight inspections. Aerospace engineers work on products that include spacecraft, launch vehicles, satellites, missiles, and rockets, with technical specialties that can include structures, propulsion, guidance, navigation, control, robotics, and aerodynamics. The particular records examined should follow the engineering question at issue.

Supersonic matters can raise questions involving aerodynamics, structural loading, propulsion, controls, acoustic effects, testing, and vehicle performance at speeds above Mach 1. NASA's high-speed-flight research addresses technical challenges associated with supersonic and hypersonic vehicles. The FAA maintains an authorization process for certain civil supersonic flight testing and is developing updated certification and operational standards for future civil supersonic aircraft. An expert's role should remain focused on the specific engineering issue rather than supersonic aviation generally.